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5 Big Stories: The Week in Business

By JEFF HARRINGTON
Published February 11, 2007

1. AutoNation chief rattles Detroit

Dealership CEO Michael Jackson calls on automakers to change their ways so he can pare down inventory.

WHAT IT MEANS: Among Jackson's laundry list of suggestions: make more powerful trucks with V8 engines instead of the V6. And as head of the country's biggest auto retailer, Jackson has the clout to get Detroit to listen.

2. TECO looks to ship out

TECO Energy considers selling its TECO Transport shipping business.

WHAT IT MEANS: Saddled with huge debt from poor investments in out-of-state power plants, the Tampa utility wants to raise money. Fast. It may sell its shipping fleet, barges and Louisiana terminal within six months.

3. Airlines end year with plenty of baggage

2006 was a tough year for airline passengers wanting to arrive on time with their luggage.

WHAT IT MEANS: Airlines lost or mishandled checked baggage at the highest rate since 1990. Blame, in part, tighter carry-on security. It also was the worst year since 2000 for arriving on time. Blame heavy passenger loads.

4. University Mall finds suitors

A deal to sell the 30-year-old Tampa landmark is expected to close within a few months.

WHAT IT MEANS: Mall owner Glimcher Realty Trust wants to raise $250-million to $260-million by weeding its portfolio, with most of that tally coming from University Mall.

5. Home Depot gets makeover

New CEO Frank Blake shakes up the culture and changes priorities.

WHAT IT MEANS: Gone are the catered lunches for executives under former CEO Bob Nardelli. Gone also may be the wholesale supply business, which was expected to be based in Central Florida. Blake hints at selling it.

[Last modified February 9, 2007, 23:40:07]